Why Nigerian Entertainers Stayed Away from Nationwide Protests

As Nigeria faces widespread protests, the country’s celebrities have expressed a range of opinions, revealing a deep divide in their perspectives. While the protests have succeeded in drawing government attention to various issues, the perceived apathy of some celebrities toward the current protests, in contrast to their active participation during the 2020 EndSARS movement, has concerned some fans.

The 2023 elections, which saw Bola Tinubu emerge as the country’s president, marked a critical juncture, leading many entertainers to question whether Nigeria can achieve meaningful change. Celebrities who did not support Tinubu’s presidential ambition appear unperturbed about the country’s current situation and have opted to stay quiet.

Many entertainers, faced with potential repercussions of taking a stand, have decided to stay away from the protests. This decision is influenced by a desire to avoid controversy, potential backlash from fans, or fears of professional consequences. The reluctance of these public figures to engage with the protests highlights the challenges celebrities face in balancing personal beliefs with public expectations and potential consequences.

A prominent entertainer from the South East, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “Nigerians chose the leader they want, and everyone should face the consequences of their action. I think it is unfair to drag some of us into any protest even if we all feel the same way about the government. I didn’t expect anything from this government, and I am not going to come here and start postulating about this policy or that policy. It is four years, after that, we will speak on the next line of action.”

While some celebrities voiced skepticism about the nation’s future, doubting the efficacy of political and social efforts to bring about positive transformation, others have adopted a more patient stance. They advocate giving the current government time to implement its economic recovery policies, arguing that these measures need time to yield results and that premature judgment may hinder potential progress.

Notably, some celebrities explained their decision to distance themselves from the protests, citing past experiences such as the 2020 EndSARS movement, which they believed failed to produce significant outcomes. Many of the 2020 protesters remain in jail, and the government has yet to provide compensation to the families of those allegedly killed by security forces.

Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy articulated his reason on X (formerly Twitter), recalling how his music was rejected by protesters in 2020. “The fight in me died on this day. Ogun go d***y, anybody wey call my name this time around,” he wrote, expressing a sense of resignation.

Paul Okoye, formerly of the music group P-Square, expressed his frustration, stating, “I have nothing more to say about the situation of the country and would never be part of any protest again because Nigerians deserve what they get.”

Tonto Dikeh took a somewhat neutral stance, emphasizing her personal freedom in political matters. “If politics will make you unfollow me, please go ahead. I have no hard feelings; I wouldn’t stop supporting to make this country a great place. One thing I wouldn’t do is stress about what you think of my opinion and of my choices or even block my comment section. God bless you all with love and light,” she posted.

Her remarks, however, drew sharp criticism from her followers. One fan commented, “What’s all this na? Can you just hand over this phone to your manager? Without followers, you are nothing, without fans even the government will not recognize you. That you have enough food in your house, just like I do doesn’t mean you should deny the fact that people are suffering.”

Another fan suggested that Dikeh might be seeking political favor, saying, “I understand you are struggling to get SSA appointment but allow your conscience to speak for you.”

In a separate instance, Toke Makinwa faced backlash for implying that some protesters were using the opportunity to loot businesses. Although she clarified that this was not her intention, her comments and perceived indifference sparked further criticism. Her followers accused her of being out of touch with the realities faced by many Nigerians.

On the other hand, comedian and activist Mr. Macaroni took a firm stand against the government’s response to the protests. He criticized the authorities for disrupting peaceful demonstrations, arguing that the protests are always peaceful until state-sponsored thugs intervene. “This is proof that the protests are always peaceful and with good intentions until state-sponsored thugs are sent to disrupt the protests. The Police, in their complicity, will ignore the infiltrators and start to attack peaceful protesters,” he asserted.

Mr. Macaroni emphasized that the government’s responsibility is to listen to the people’s grievances and protect peaceful protesters, not suppress them. He warned against attempts to rewrite history, as seen with the EndSARS movement, and stressed the importance of allowing citizens to express their frustrations through protest.

Yemi Alade also weighed in, promoting a song from her new album, “Rebel Queen,” which calls for peace and love in Africa. “Dem-don-cråzy or Democracy? We all deserve better standards of living and the means to afford basic amenities of life. Food, water, electricity, etc.”

Similarly, Big Brother Naija Level Up winner Phyna called for an end to bad government. She stated that she stands for a new, better, and greater Nigeria and joins hands with the great citizens of the land to push for the betterment of its citizens. Phyna noted how she is a Nigerian and not an enslaved person as she went on to sing the former National Anthem. In her caption, she stated that we all deserve better living standards and the means to afford basic amenities of life such as food, water, electricity, and more.

While some entertainers chose to stay away from the protests, citing disillusionment or personal beliefs, others actively voice their support or criticism. This split reflects the complex landscape of Nigerian society, where opinions on governance, justice, and social change are deeply polarized. As the nation navigates these challenges, the voices of celebrities will continue to play a significant role in shaping public discourse.

Pau Victor’s Quickfire Double Secures Barcelona’s Victory Over Real Madrid in El Clasico

Rising Barcelona star Pau Victor stole the spotlight with a stunning 12-minute brace, leading his team to a 2-0 victory over arch-rivals Real Madrid and earning the MVP award for the fixture.

The match, held at MetLife Stadium, was briefly interrupted due to lightning and heavy rain. After a 70-minute delay, the game resumed to the relief of over 80,000 fans and millions of viewers worldwide.

Despite the break, Real Madrid struggled to regain momentum, and Barcelona capitalized with Robert Lewandowski and Pau Victor combining skillfully inside the box. Alex Valle delivered a precise cross, which Lewandowski headed down for Pau Victor to convert from close range, putting Barcelona ahead in the 42nd minute.

After halftime, Pau Victor came close to doubling his tally with a powerful shot saved by Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois. Shortly afterward, Lewandowski assisted Pau Victor once again with a well-placed pass from Valle, allowing Pau Victor to score his second goal by slipping between Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao.

Real Madrid’s Nico Paz set up a dramatic finish by scoring a header with eight minutes remaining. However, after nearly three hours of play, Barcelona emerged victorious, with Hansi Flick celebrating a successful first Clasico as Barcelona’s manager.

Martin Braithwaite Eyes Espanyol Purchase After Tense Exit

Martin Braithwaite, recently released by Espanyol, is reportedly planning to buy the LaLiga side following a fallout with the club’s management, according to MARCA.

This surprising move comes after his departure from Espanyol earlier this summer.

Having now signed with Brazilian club Grêmio, Braithwaite initially expressed a desire to leave Espanyol in 2023 when the team was relegated to the Spanish second division. Despite staying to help Espanyol secure promotion back to LaLiga, his relations with the club’s management deteriorated, leading to the activation of his contract’s exit clause and his release as a free agent.

During his time at Espanyol, Braithwaite delivered a notable performance in the Segunda Division last season, scoring 22 goals and providing three assists in 43 matches.

Braithwaite’s career has had its share of ups and downs. He struggled to make an impact during a challenging stint with Barcelona, which led to his transfer to Espanyol. His tenure at Barcelona was marked by limited success, following an unsuccessful period with Middlesbrough and a brief but costly spell with Leganés before Barcelona’s unexpected acquisition.

Now, the 33-year-old forward’s intention to purchase Espanyol seems driven by a desire to address his grievances with the club’s administration.

Protests Persist in Kano Despite Presidential Appeal

KANO — Hundreds of protesters continued their demonstrations in Kano on Sunday, persisting in the nationwide outcry against hunger and poor governance.

This wave of protests occurred just hours after President Bola Tinubu addressed the nation, urging the youth to suspend their protests, assuring them that their voices had been heard.

The Kano State government partially lifted its 24-hour curfew, allowing residents a six-hour window (from 8 am to 2 pm) to alleviate the curfew’s impact.

The demonstrators, primarily youths, gathered in areas such as Bakin Zuwo and Koki in Dala Local Government Area, Sharada in Kano Municipal, and Gadon Kaya in Gwale Local Government Area.

Protesters were seen waving Russian flags, expressing a desire for intervention from Russian President Vladimir Putin.

An eyewitness in Bakin Zuwo, Malam Salisu, reported seeing a large group of protesters around 10 am. “They were holding the Russian flag and protesting against issues like insecurity and hardship,” he said.

Another resident, using the handle @Tkr__khalifa on X, posted a video of the protest at Bakin Zuwo. The caption read, “Hunger protest continues in Kano for the fourth day. This follows the hopeless speech by the President of the country.” The protesters were chanting, “koya gyara sai ya sauka,” meaning “whether he adjusts or not, he must go.”

Common Mistakes Couples Make During Marital Separation

By Elizabeth Badejo

Marriage is a beautiful thing that requires hard work, commitment, and perseverance to sustain love and value the relationship. However, when couples decide to dissolve their marriage, managing the impact on themselves and their loved ones, especially their children, can be challenging.

In Nigeria, marital separation is on the rise, and divorce has become more common compared to times when elderly family members played a more significant role in conflict resolution. Several mistakes made during the process of separation or divorce can cause significant emotional turmoil and affect both the couple and their families.

Threatening Behaviour

A common mistake is threatening a spouse with separation to make them feel vulnerable. This is often seen in toxic marriages where one person feels unsafe. While separation might be necessary for well-being, the decision can leave the other spouse feeling confused, disappointed, and rejected if they are not emotionally prepared. It is crucial for both parties to think through their decision carefully.

Contentious Decisions

Rushing into a new relationship before fully recovering from the previous one can be a major mistake. While separating from a loved one creates a vacuum, bringing someone new into your life can make the situation contentious, especially if children are involved. Children may experience emotional turbulence, and seeing a new partner can deepen their apprehensions and confusion.

Revengeful and Irrational Behaviour

Marital separation can evoke feelings of anger, bitterness, and resentment. Some individuals may disclose confidential information about their spouse or act irrationally towards one another. This behavior can extend to friends and family perceived as disloyal, significantly impacting relationships built over the years. Turning against loved ones is a grievous mistake during this period.

Falsehood and Manipulation

Children should not be made to take responsibility for the failure of adults in their lives. Seeking empathy and support from children or sharing false information about marital challenges can paint one parent as a betrayal. Exposing children to such information can harm their emotional health and well-being. Parents must protect their children from the adverse effects of their separation.

Conclusion

Marital separation is a difficult process that requires careful consideration and emotional maturity. Avoiding these common mistakes can help minimize the impact on all parties involved, especially the children. It is essential to navigate this challenging time with sensitivity and respect for each other’s feelings and well-being.

NURTW: FG Yet to Fulfill CNG Bus Conversion Promise

The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has announced that the Federal Government has not fulfilled its promise to assist transporters in converting their buses to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) following the removal of the petrol subsidy on May 29, 2023.

NURTW spokesperson Segun Falade told The PUNCH on Friday, “It was going to be in phases. 1,000 buses were supposed to be available first. Then we made the outcry that the number of CNG buses was too small for the country. We advocated for 10,000 buses. So, instead of waiting for the conversion process to be completed, we ordered 5,000 buses. As we speak now, there are 5,000 buses available on the ground to be shared. But most of them are still being kept at the conversion facilities.”

During his inaugural speech on May 29, 2023, President Bola Tinubu declared an end to the petrol subsidy regime, stating emphatically, “Subsidy is gone!” This announcement led to a significant increase in petrol prices, which rose from an average of N238.11 per litre to N750 per litre, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

In response, the President launched the Presidential CNG Initiative in October 2023 to promote safer, more affordable, and eco-friendly energy solutions. The initiative plans to introduce 5,500 CNG buses and tricycles, 100 electric buses, and over 20,000 CNG conversion kits.

Falade expressed frustration over the delays in the distribution process, noting, “The consignment from the conversion facilities has been done, but not wholeheartedly the way we expected it. We are just waiting for activations. So, we are expecting the rest to be distributed. We are expecting others to be launched.”

He added that the initial plan was to complete the conversion by May 29, but unforeseen issues caused delays. “We had some issues along the line, so we are awaiting distribution, especially with a lot of issues coming out from this protest. I believe the government is not taking it lightly,” Falade explained.

In April 2024, the Presidency announced its readiness to launch about 2,700 CNG-powered buses and tricycles before President Tinubu’s first anniversary in office. The statement from Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, read, “From the end of May, Nigeria will take some baby steps to join such nations that already have large fleets of CNG vehicles. All is now ready for delivery of the first set of critical assets for deployment and launch of the CNG initiative ahead of the first anniversary of the Tinubu administration on May 29. About 2,500 of the tricycles will be ready before May 29, 2024…working towards delivering 200 units before the first anniversary of the Tinubu administration.”

The NURTW continues to await the complete fulfillment of the government’s promises amid the challenges faced by transporters and the ongoing protests.

Alex Iwobi Named Man of the Match in Fulham’s Win Over Benfica

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi was named Man of the Match following his stellar performance in Fulham’s 1-0 pre-season friendly victory over Benfica at the Estadio Algarve on Friday night, reports PUNCH Sports Extra.

The 27-year-old, wearing the number 17 jersey, scored the decisive goal in the 21st minute, finishing from inside the box with an assist from Antonee Robinson.

Although Benfica dominated the early stages and tested Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno with several attempts, the Cottagers absorbed the pressure and gradually took control of the game. Fulham’s counter-attack in the 21st minute, led by the tireless Adama Traore, culminated in Iwobi’s calm finish.

Iwobi’s impressive display lasted until the 79th minute, when he was substituted for Martial Godo. His compatriot, Calvin Bassey, also delivered a solid defensive performance, playing the full 90 minutes for Fulham.

The London club is set to face Sevilla at the same venue on Monday night, a match that could feature four Nigerian players: Iwobi and Bassey for Fulham, and Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho for Sevilla.

Formerly of Arsenal and Everton, Iwobi’s standout performance and goal signal his good form ahead of the new season, providing optimism for both Fulham and Super Eagles fans.

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria: Protesters Hold Sunday Service and Block Roads in Plateau

By Gloria

In Jos, the capital city of Plateau State, protesters continued their #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria demonstrations by conducting a church service on Sunday. This ongoing protest, which began on Thursday, drew a significant crowd at the Old Airport Roundabout, including Christian and Muslim leaders as well as former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung.

Protesters, waving Nigerian flags, blocked the roundabout, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes. The service was deemed crucial by many attendees, who believe that divine intervention could help change Nigeria’s situation for the better.

Philip Madaki, a protester who arrived at the Old Airport Junction around 7:30 a.m. for the service, explained that the church service was a continuation of the protest to seek divine intervention in Nigeria’s governance. He expressed hope that God would influence the nation’s leaders to address the suffering caused by poor governance and harsh economic policies.

“I have been participating in the protest since it began on Thursday, and today being Sunday, we are continuing with the protest with a church service,” Madaki said. “As the protest is ongoing, we believe that God Almighty has not abandoned the country and its citizens, and we know He has the power to turn the hearts of kings in whichever direction He wants.

“We want Him to visit our leaders in the country, especially those in governance positions, and touch their hearts so that they will know that the citizens are really suffering because of bad governance and their harsh economic policies and be able to do something to change the situation. That’s why we are adding the church service to the ongoing protests.”

The protestors hope that through their demonstrations and prayers, the nation’s leaders will be moved to enact positive changes and alleviate the hardships faced by the Nigerian people.

South East’s Silence in #EndBadGovernance Protests Explained by Josef Onoh

Josef Onoh, the former spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu’s campaign, has provided insight into the South East’s lack of participation in the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests. According to Onoh, this silence is a statement against Nigeria’s broader systemic issues rather than the current administration.

Onoh emphasized that the South East feels marginalized and excluded from significant national roles and infrastructure projects. He responded to Senator Shehu Sani’s tweet, which questioned why the South East did not join the protests despite substantial support from the region.

In his statement, Onoh said, “The South East is silent because the protesters demanded scrapping of the 1999 constitution and to replace it with a people-made constitution, without providing their own people-made manuscript for that new constitution. The South East is silent because the protesters demanded that the president should toss the nation’s legislative arm of the government, the National Assembly, and exhibited ignorance of the President’s lack of constitutional powers to scrap any arm of the government.”

He continued, “The South East is silent because even under a democratic setting, the South East region is on a high level of militarization, and the protesters are also chanting for military rule which would be more devastating to the region. The South East is silent because our silence has exposed the ‘real enemies’ of President Tinubu. We do not have the political luxuries, influence, entitlement, and benefits that the regions participating in the protest have.”

Onoh highlighted the historical and ongoing struggles of the South East, saying, “The north have produced presidents, the South-South and South West but not the South East, hence we see it as a problem between husbands and wives while we are the houseboy. When we had tears to shed, no region wiped away our tears. When we had a voice to shout, they said we were mad. When we cared, they said we had other motives. Today we are the least represented region in the current administration; we feel we are not wanted, we feel we are hated, we feel isolated, we feel distant.”

Despite these sentiments, Onoh expressed his belief in President Tinubu’s potential to bring positive change, provided the nation unites. He stated, “Irrespective of the above, I still believe in President Tinubu. He might not have all the solutions, but if we come together as a nation irrespective of whether we like each region or not, I believe a variegated group must agree they want to be a people, preserving our tolerant permissive society.”

Onoh concluded by acknowledging the shared pain and suffering of Nigerians, while highlighting the unique hardships faced by the South East.

Erik Ten Hag Hints at Satisfaction with Current Centre-Back Options Amid Transfer Speculation

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has suggested he may be content with his current centre-back options even if the club does not secure the transfers of Matthijs de Ligt or Jarrad Branthwaite before the summer window closes.

The Red Devils suffered a 3-0 defeat to Liverpool in their final pre-season friendly in the United States on Sunday, raising fitness concerns as Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof were substituted at half-time. Ten Hag later clarified that Evans was withdrawn due to illness, while Lindelof’s substitution was precautionary. Harry Maguire also missed out on playing to avoid risking injury, and new signing Leny Yoro faces months out.

Despite these setbacks, Ten Hag expressed confidence in his central defence options. United recently signed Yoro from Lille for up to £59 million. Although personal terms have been agreed with De Ligt, Bayern Munich is demanding £42 million for the Dutchman. Everton, meanwhile, is holding out for £70 million for Branthwaite after rejecting a United bid of £35 million plus £8 million in add-ons.

“We have good options there in the centre-back position,” said Ten Hag after the loss to Liverpool in Columbia, South Carolina. “Harry Maguire was also a precaution. Jonny Evans was ill and we had to take him out at half-time. Licha Martinez is coming back, a Copa America winner who played all the games there, so I think he’s in very good form. We have options and good options in the centre-half position.”

Several United players, including Martinez, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, and Bruno Fernandes, are returning from Euro 2024 and the Copa America. Ten Hag is optimistic they will be ready to start the new season against Fulham next Friday.

Despite his satisfaction with the current squad, Ten Hag hinted at potential additions, including a central midfielder and a right-back. Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte and Bayern Munich defender Noussair Mazraoui are known targets, with Mazraoui reportedly flying to Manchester for a medical next Tuesday.

“It’s always difficult to say,” Ten Hag commented on further changes to his team. “We hope and we’re always looking. We’ve seen this new leadership team is really eager to do business and to make deals. They’re on it and if the timing is there and the opportunities are there, I don’t know, I can’t say at this moment. But I’m sure, when they are there, they will go forward.”

After their loss to Liverpool, United will return to England to prepare for the Community Shield against Premier League champions Manchester City at Wembley next Saturday. United concluded the 2023-24 campaign by defeating City 2-1 in the FA Cup final at the same venue in May and will aim for a similar result.